Romans 14:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 14:23
23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
Chapter Context
Romans 14 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, holiness, faith. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 14:23
23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
Analysis
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith—Ho de diakrinomenos ean phagē katakekritai, hoti ouk ek pisteōs (ὁ δὲ διακρινόμενος ἐὰν φάγῃ κατακέκριται, ὅτι οὐκ ἐκ πίστεως). Diakrinomenos (διακρίνω, doubting/being divided) means internal conflict, hesitation, uncertainty. Katakritai (κατακρίνω, is condemned) likely means self-condemned, not eternally damned—he acts against conscience, producing guilt. Ouk ek pisteōs (not from faith/conviction) identifies the problem: action without persuasion violates integrity.
For whatsoever is not of faith is sin—Pan de ho ouk ek pisteōs hamartia estin (πᾶν δὲ ὃ οὐκ ἐκ πίστεως ἁμαρτία ἐστίν). Pan (πᾶς, everything) universalizes—this principle extends beyond food to all of life. Hamartia (ἁμαρτία, sin) means missing the mark, falling short. Acting without conviction (pistis—persuasion, assurance) is sin because it's not offered to God from the heart (v. 6, 8). Even objectively good actions, if done from doubt, manipulation, or coercion, don't please God (Hebrews 11:6, 'without faith impossible to please God').
Historical Context
This verse became controversial in later theology. Reformers used it to argue that unregenerate 'good works' are sin because they lack saving faith. Medieval Catholics disagreed, arguing pagan virtues (justice, kindness) have natural goodness. Paul's context is narrower: disputable matters done with divided conscience are sin. Yet the principle applies: all of life must flow from faith-rooted conviction, not hypocrisy, doubt, or coercion. Augustine wrote, 'He who acts against conscience builds the road to hell.' Violating conscience hardens it, making future sin easier. Acting from conviction cultivates integrity.
Reflection
- In what areas do you act with 'doubt' (<em>diakrinomenos</em>)—internal conflict signaling you're violating conscience?
- How does the principle 'whatsoever is not of faith is sin' apply beyond food to work, relationships, entertainment, and daily decisions?
- What's the difference between acting 'from faith' (<em>ek pisteōs</em>, from conviction) and acting from fear, peer pressure, or habit?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Titus 1:15, Hebrews 11:6
- Parallel theme: Romans 13:2, 14:5, 1 Corinthians 8:7